Athens is famous for its ancient ruins, but its walls tell a newer story. Murals, stencils and graffiti cover whole neighbourhoods, reflecting the city’s politics, humour and resilience. Here is where to look.
Psyrri
Start in Psyrri, where almost every alley has something to see, from large murals to small stencils. Artists such as INO, Alexandros Vasmoulakis and WD (Wild Drawing) have left work across the city that comments on its social, political and economic life.
Metaxourgeio
Metaxourgeio mixes old buildings with a contemporary edge. Street art has helped bring the area back to life, and you will find work that ranges from playful to provocative.
Exarchia
In Exarchia the art is openly political, in keeping with the neighbourhood’s history of activism. Murals and graffiti here often respond to the economic crisis and social issues, and the walls work as a public forum.
Gazi
Gazi grew up around the city’s old gasworks, which are now a cultural venue. Street art fills the area, and its industrial setting makes a striking backdrop.
Eating between walls
Many cafés and restaurants in these neighbourhoods have murals of their own, so a meal or coffee is part of the tour. Stop for traditional Greek food and keep looking up.
A day off the streets
Swap the walls for open water the next day. Our day cruise leaves Marina Zeas in Piraeus at 09:00 for free time on Agistri and Aegina, a swim stop and a Greek lunch on board, and you are back around 19:00.
